When taken in large doses nutmeg works as a hallucinogen

When taken in large doses nutmeg works as a hallucinogen.

Nutmeg, commonly known as a popular spice found in many households, has also gained a reputation as a hallucinogen when consumed in large doses. While nutmeg is typically used to enhance the flavor of various foods and beverages, it possesses psychoactive compounds that can produce hallucinogenic effects when taken in excessive amounts.

Nutmeg contains a chemical compound called myristicin, which acts as a natural psychoactive substance. When consumed in small quantities, myristicin remains relatively harmless and offers potential health benefits, such as anti-inflammatory properties. However, in larger doses, myristicin can induce hallucinations, resulting in a potent and often unpleasant high.

Research suggests that consuming anywhere from two to three tablespoons of freshly ground nutmeg can potentially trigger hallucinatory experiences. These hallucinations may include altered perception of colors, shapes, and sizes, as well as vivid and intense dreams. Some individuals have reported feeling dissociated from reality or experiencing a sense of euphoria, while others have described the experience as uncomfortable and disorienting.

It is essential to note that the psychoactive effects of nutmeg are not immediate and may take hours to manifest. This delayed onset can lead some people to consume even larger doses, assuming that the initial dosage was insufficient. However, this can be extremely dangerous and increase the risk of adverse effects and overdose.

Despite its potential hallucinogenic effects, nutmeg is not considered a popular recreational drug due to several reasons. Firstly, the experience induced by nutmeg is highly variable and unpredictable. Individuals may react differently to the same dosage, resulting in varying intensities and durations of hallucinatory effects. This unpredictability makes nutmeg an unreliable choice for those seeking a consistent hallucinogenic experience.

Secondly, nutmeg overdose can cause a range of negative physical and psychological effects. These may include nausea, vomiting, dry mouth, increased heart rate, anxiety, dizziness, confusion, and even psychosis in severe cases. Furthermore, the high can last for up to 48 to 72 hours, contributing to an extended period of uncomfortable and potentially harmful symptoms.

It is important to emphasize that the recreational use of nutmeg is highly discouraged due to these associated risks. The potential adverse effects and the uncertainty of the experience make it an unreliable and potentially dangerous choice for those seeking to explore hallucinogenic substances.

In conclusion, while nutmeg contains psychoactive compounds that can induce hallucinogenic effects when consumed in large doses, its recreational use is strongly discouraged due to its unpredictable and potentially harmful nature. The variability of experiences and the risk of negative physical and psychological effects make nutmeg an unreliable choice for those seeking a controlled and safe hallucinogenic experience. It is important to prioritize health and well-being and to refrain from experimenting with substances that can pose significant risks.

Source: ABC News